FEC Approves $1.07 Billion for Health Sector Reform, HIV Treatment

• The Federal Executive Council has approved $1.07 billion for healthcare reforms under the HOPE programme, alongside N4.8 billion for HIV treatment
• A multi-ministerial committee has been formed to ensure funding continuity for health programs amid potential disruptions from recent US policy changes

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved $1.07 billion to support healthcare reforms under the Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) programme. Additionally, N4.8 billion has been allocated for HIV treatment.

This was announced by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate, after the FEC meeting on Monday.

Pate revealed that a multi-ministerial committee has been formed to create a transition and sustainability plan. This move follows the recent executive order by US President Donald Trump, which includes a 90-day pause on foreign aid.

The plan aims to prevent funding disruptions for key health programmes, including HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria.

“The committee includes representatives from the ministries of finance, health, defense, and environment, as well as the governors’ forum. Its goal is to ensure uninterrupted treatment for those in need,” Pate stated.

He appreciated the US government’s past contributions and emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its healthcare system using domestic resources.

As part of the healthcare reforms, N4.8 billion has been approved for purchasing 150,000 HIV treatment packs over the next four months.

Pate noted that this initiative reflects the government’s dedication to providing life-saving treatment and reducing healthcare costs for vulnerable groups.

Meanwhile, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, disclosed that the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA) has provided two concessional loans of $500 million each and $70 million in grants from international organizations.

In addition to health reforms, the FEC approved N20 billion for Nigeria Customs Service projects, including procuring compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles, constructing forward bases in remote areas, and a N1 billion life insurance policy for officers.